Frequently Asked Questions about "Going Organic"
Must organic farmers use certified organic seed?
The
Canadian Organic Standard states that organic seed and planting stock
must be used (Section 5.3.1). Exceptions are made when an operator
demonstrates that a specific variety is not commercially available as
organic (i.e. quantities are limited or non-existent), provided the
seed is not treated with prohibited pesticides/fungicides and not
produced with the aid of genetic engineering (any seed coatings should
also be cleared for use by the certifier).
Non-organic,
perennial planting stock can be used provided the plants are grown in
accordance with organic standards for one year before products from
them are represented as organic.
Certification Bodies require
written documentation from the producer that an honest attempt was made
to source organic seed. This written evidence could be in the form of
emails, phone records, or records of seed catalogue searches. Your CB
may have a seed search template for you to use. Depending on the CB, it
may be necessary to check with 3 - 5 potential sources of organic seed.
Seed sources should be those generally known to stock organic seed, not
companies who do not sell any organic varieties.
Overall,
seed
catalogues are advertising greater quantities of organic seed,
especially heirloom and open pollinated vegetables. Hybrid varieties,
grains and oilseeds and specialty seeds/stock are more difficult to
obtain as certified organic. In addition to retail sources, there is an
informal network for exchanging and selling organic seed amongst
growers. Buyers should make sure that seed stocks have a high
germination rate and are free of weed seeds. While organic seed may be
more expensive than conventional seed, organic growers have a
responsibility to use it (where commercially available) in order to
support the growth of organic agriculture.
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